As the days get shorter and summer draws to a close, you may already be thinking about your winter escape to warmer climates. Malaysia, a southeast asian country may well be among your list of top 10 destinations. And if it isn’t it certainly should be!

In recent times, Malaysia has become increasingly popular amongst holiday makers, offering a wide range of travel possibilities with options to suit all budgets and tastes. In fact, its popularity stems from the country’s ability to offer amazing variety, whether one is seeking a cultural escape, or a few weeks relaxing on the tropical palm set beaches to enjoying nature and wildlife, whilst climbing mountains and trekking the jungles.

Malaysia is divided into two by the South China Sea. Western Malaysia, bordering Thailand on the North and Singapore on the South, is known as Peninsular Malaysia. On the East, Malaysia borders with Indonesia, and is known as Malaysian Borneo, comprising the two regions Sabah and Sarawak.

Although one country, both sides have their own identity offering special and unique experiences for travellers. Malaysia’s population is varied comprising of 57% traditional Malays and indigenous groups, 27% Chinese, 8% Indians and remaining 8% others. Consequently, Malaysia’s cultures and traditions are very much influenced by its people.

Islam is the state religion, but freedom of religion is guaranteed in Malaysia. It is not uncommon therefore to see other religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and Christianity practised quite commonly. As a reflection of its diverse multiculturalism, there is plenty to see and do in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is the capital of Malaysia. Like most cities KL is a modern metropolis full of life, colour and character and has a skyline to match any other. Amongst the skyscrapers, KL boasts the gleaming Twin Petronas Towers, the world’s second tallest building standing at 451.9m high. Unique in design the Petronas Towers represents the “New Malaysia”. The floor plan is based on an 8-sided star that echoes the arabesque patterns of Islamic art, and each of the five tiers represents the five pillars of Islam.

Further Islamic influence is seen in the 63m masts that crown them, calling to mind the minarets of a mosque and the star of Islam. In addition to the Petronas Towers, KL’s skyline also hosts the KL Tower. One can enjoy the breathtaking views whilst sitting enjoying lunch or dinner high up in its revolving restaurant.

For the shopaholics, KL is a paradise of designer boutiques and shopping malls, offering a wide selection from clothes, shoes, electronics, cameras and everyday goods. On the whole, prices are cheaper than in the UK, but it is very easy to get carried away! Away from the designer labels, there are also plenty of markets which thrive on selling arts, crafts, souvenirs and local goods such as Batiks.

Shopping here is a different experience altogether as bargains are gained by bartering and haggling. One of the most popular areas fun can be had, driving a hard bargain is in Central Market and Chinatown. If you can escape the clutches of the shopping haven, KL and surrounding regions offer other experiences.

In the Lake Gardens there’s a Bird Park, Butterfly Park, Deer Park and Planetarium. You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll or simply drift along, in a paddle boat on the lake.

For the food lovers amongst us, Malaysia offers a wealth of choice, from fast food to traditional Malay and Indo-Asian influences. Given its Islamic stance the food is generally halal. Even the “Big Mac” is halal. Exceptions to this rule apply in generally Chinese outlets.

KL has no deficit of culture or history. The old colonial buildings and modern Islamic architecture are typical of its heritage. An hour from KL in Selangor state is a showpiece of Islamic architecture – Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, nicknamed the “Blue Mosque” for its blue aluminium dome covered in verses from the Quran. This huge gleaming mosque is Malaysia’s largest and accommodates up to 24,000 worshippers; its four minarets are the tallest in the world at over 140m.

Further north of KL, away from city life lie the Cameron Highlands. The drive to the highlands traverses some picturesque scenery, the eyecatching waterfall Lata Iskandar should be a definite stop-gap for that perfect picture moment, not to mention a refreshing cool down in the baking humid sun.

The highlands tea plantations are also a popular tourist attraction. A visit to the Boh Tea Estate is a definite must in order to enjoy that freshly brewed cuppa! For those in need of some sun, sea and sand, Malaysia is spoiled for choice with great beaches and tropical islands where you can try a range of water sports or just lie back and soak up the sun and views.

Langkawi is a popular island amongst tourists for beautiful beaches, whilst the east coast of the peninsular and Sabah and Sarawak offer some great stretches of sand and sea, perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Malaysia is also host to a wealth of national parks which offer many challenges for the adventurous traveller, wanting to seek out nature and wildlife.

Mount Kinabalu in Malaysian Borneo is the biggest tourist attraction in Sabah, being the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea (4095m). Mt Kinabalu is one of the easiest mountains in the world to climb, and thousands of people of all ages and fitness levels scale the summit every year.

So if you’re feeling adventurous, all you need is some stamina and self determination! So what are you waiting for, get booking that holiday of a life-time!